John Charles Wilkins

John Charles Wilkins, 84, of Rapid City, South Dakota, passed away on August 1, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held at 10:30 AM on Monday, August 10, 2026, at Kirk Funeral Home & Cremation Services in Rapid City, South Dakota. Burial will follow at 2:30 PM at Black Hills National Cemetery near Sturgis, South Dakota. Arrangements are entrusted to Kirk Funeral Home & Cremation Services.

https://www.kirkfuneralhome.com/obituary/john-wilkins

He was born on December 1, 1941, to Charles and Mary (Payne) Wilkins at Burdicks Maternity Home in Flandreau, South Dakota. John attended Fletcher Country School through the seventh grade before graduating from Flandreau High School.

On November 18, 1959, he married the love of his life, Leona Gehlsen, beginning a partnership that spanned nearly 67 years. In January 1960, John enlisted in the United States Army, embarking on a distinguished military career that would last two decades.

During his service, John was stationed at several military installations throughout the United States before attending Officer Candidate School. He later served in Korea, Vietnam, and Germany, primarily in military logistics. While serving his country, he earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Nebraska, reflecting the importance he placed on education.

John retired from the U.S. Army in 1980 with the rank of Major. His exemplary military service was recognized with numerous commendations, including the Bronze Star Medal for his service in Vietnam and the Meritorious Service Medal for his service as a NATO Plans Officer in Germany.

After retiring from the Army, John and Leona returned to South Dakota, where they farmed northeast of Flandreau for 20 years. Following their retirement from farming, they embraced a new season of life, traveling extensively throughout the United States, Canada, and Mexico in their RV, before eventually making their home in Rapid City. Their travels also took them abroad on memorable tours through Australia and Europe.

John had an enduring love of the outdoors and staying active. An avid bicyclist, he especially treasured riding the Katy Trail in Missouri and the George S. Mickelson Trail in the Black Hills with his son and grandsons. He also logged countless enjoyable miles on the Rapid City bike path, a pastime that brought him both joy and good health.

Above all, John cherished his family. He is survived by his beloved wife, Leona; his daughter, Janet (Steve) Kirsch; his son, Richard (Amy) Wilkins; grandchildren Justin, Mitchell (Amanda), Christopher, Ryan, Daniel (Mya), Isabel, Ella, Alison, Kristen (Matt), Shay, and Peyton; and great-grandchildren Easton, Kala, Tate, and Everly.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles and Mary Wilkins; his sister, Eunice; and his daughter-in-law, Cindy.

John will be remembered for his quiet strength, steadfast dedication to his family and country, and his spirit of adventure, and the example he set through a life of service, hard work, and integrity. His legacy lives on in the family he loved, the lives he touched, and the memories shared by all who knew him.